A report has highlighted that individuals suffering from sickle cell disease are receiving inferior treatment compared to others with genetic illnesses such as cystic fibrosis. Conducted by researchers at Imperial College London and commissioned by the NHS Race and Health Observatory, the study analyzed various aspects of sickle cell care from 2010 to 2024, showing a disparity in the quality of care for the disease compared to cystic fibrosis.
According to the study, for every 100 sickle cell patients, there is only 0.5 specialist nurse, whereas there are 2 specialist nurses per 100 cystic fibrosis patients. Additionally, the research funds allocated for cystic fibrosis are 2.5 times more than those for sickle cell, resulting in fewer treatment options and breakthrough drugs for sickle cell patients.
The report also found that 20% of sickle cell babies do not see a specialist by three months old, despite the NHS guidelines that stipulate 90% should have a specialist consultation by this age. John James, the chief executive of the Sickle Cell Society, emphasized the urgency to address these inequalities in healthcare and acknowledged the influence of investment in healthcare on these disparities.
NHS England has acknowledged the disparities in care for sickle cell patients and is taking action through initiatives such as improving digital care plans and launching a campaign to increase awareness of the disease’s signs and symptoms.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jun/19/uk-sickle-cell-patients-get-worse-care-than-sufferers-of-similar-disorders
